Powerful performances in FCT's 'Aida' make it worth the trip to Fleetwood; Final performance Aug. 7, 2 p.m.

Aida, played by Nichole McFarlane, is escorted by an Egyptian soldier.

Aida and Radames share a kiss.

By Cheryl Thornburg

If you're anywhere near Berks County today (Aug.7), consider taking a trip back in time with Fleetwood Community Theatre's final performance of "Aida." Elton John and Tim Rice’s contemporary musical demands dynamic leads and director Debbi Silas has put together a cast that more than meets those demands.Nichole McFarlane seems to have been born to play the regal Nubian princess Aida who has been captured by the Egyptians and put into slavery. She is Aida from head to toe. Her vocals range from poignant to powerful as she delivers some of the shows most memorable songs, "Elaborate Lives," "Written in the Stars," and "The Gods Love Nubia."The show features many duets, and matching McFarlane note for note is Jonathan Quier as Radames, the Egyptian soldier who captured her and falls in love with her, despite being betrothed to the Egyptian princess Amneris.Quier brings passion and depth to his version of Radames, whether singing a love song with Aida or challenging his powerful and manipulative father, Zoser, played by David Hornberger, in "Like Father, Like Son."Completing the classic love triangle is Allyson Horn as Amneris. Horn sets the tone for the show with the opening song, "Every Story Is a Love Story," and from the first note it is obvious she can handle the role. Her upbeat delivery of "My Favorite Suit," is fun and flirty set against the backdrop of an Egyptian fashion show.Another of the show's duets, "How I Know You," features McFarlane and James Damore as Mereb, the clever Nubian slave who seems to get things done. Damore's tenor rings true as he tells Aida he knows her real identity. He also shows a flair for comedy as the well-intentioned Mereb, who can't quite keep a secret.Deborah Anne D'Haiti makes the most of her supporting role as Nehebka, another Nubian slave who sacrifices herself for her princess.Rounding out the ensemble cast are Caitlin Cavallomagno, Olivia Damore, Ashley Frankhouser, Kelly Klick, Rebekah Thomas, Donna Torres, Jessica Wolf, Ausjoli Colon, Anna Heitman, George Benjamin, David Erb, Dean Fichthorn, Brian Miller, David Mote, Will Patti, and Lance Thomas.In addition to director Debbi Silas, production staff includes Christopher D. Hoster music director; Jenni Juntunen, costumer; Jeanette DeAngelo, assistant director; Tara Sands, production manager; and Micah Wentzel, master carpenter.The final performance of "Aida" is today (Sunday Aug. 7) at 2 p.m. at Fleetwood Area High School, 809 N. Richmond Street, Fleetwood. Tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for Students/Seniors and can be purchased at the door or by calling 610-944-3610.

Cheryl....thank you so much for supporting our local theaters. The actors and crew appreciate it more than you know. If you have time today, please visit Genesius Theatre for the final performance of The Tale of The West Texas Marsupial Girl at three pm today. This is a tale of acceptance and the wonderment of being different put on by the youngest Genesian thespians. Hope you can make it.